Marketplace All-in-One

The government shutdown is complicating economic data, leaving uncertainty in its wake. Recruiters discuss a K-shaped job market, revealing a split in demand for high earners versus other positions. Oil service companies struggle with low prices and oversupply. On a different front, Netflix is venturing beyond streaming into live sports and gaming. The introduction of a barter platform highlights an innovative approach to skill exchange. Economic trends and tech company valuations continue to be a focal point.

Farmers face increasing challenges from climate change, risking their livelihoods with every storm. In Colorado, a unique apprenticeship program is teaching climate literacy to aspiring ranchers. The program blends traditional agricultural skills with regenerative ranching techniques to build resilience against drought. Meanwhile, discussions on recent economic strains highlight the weakening dollar, Amazon's service outages, and the impact on small and mid-sized businesses. It's a compelling look at how education can empower future generations in agriculture.

A significant outage of Amazon Web Services disrupts popular platforms like Facebook, Snapchat, and Fortnite, highlighting the fragility of digital services. The discussion shifts to the intriguing rise of altcoins and the potential future of altcoin ETFs as they await SEC approval. Meanwhile, China's leadership outlines economic strategies amid growth slowdowns and tariff challenges. Amidst all this, the sale of Gucci's beauty line to L'Oreal for $4.7 billion adds a glamorous twist to the economic landscape.

China's Communist Party meets to strategize amidst sluggish economic growth and falling housing prices. Bolivia's new president prioritizes addressing an economic crisis with pro-business reforms. As the festive Diwali season kicks off in India, rising gold prices force shoppers to reconsider their purchases, leading to changes in budgets and preferences for alternative metals. Reports also touch on the impact of gold exchange programs and digital investments on consumer behavior.

Levi Sumagaysay, a labor and policy reporter at CalMatters, discusses California's groundbreaking law mandating that Uber and Lyft drivers can collectively bargain. He highlights how this could change the dynamic for independent contractors, who traditionally lack certain labor rights. Levi anticipates national implications, compares the situation to Massachusetts and New York, and outlines drivers' main demands, including higher wages and better protections. The conversation also delves into organizing challenges and the unclear right to strike under the new law.

Aaron Steele, founder of Goats on the Go, shares his journey of using goats for landscaping in Iowa, blending business innovation with environmental sustainability. He discusses the operational challenges of managing such a unique venture, from labor to transportation. In addition, the conversation touches on the health of regional banks amidst concerns about loan fraud, rising auto loan delinquencies as economic warning signs, and the evolution of culinary culture beyond mere food elitism. Goats are the unexpected stars in this lively dialogue!

Jason Rosenbaum, the politics correspondent for St. Louis Public Radio, joins Kimberly to dissect the contentious landscape of Missouri politics. They explore the newly drawn congressional maps favoring Republicans, the clash between voter-led initiatives and legislative actions on issues like abortion rights, and the slow recovery from the recent tornado. Plus, they debate the merits of St. Louis-style pizza—will you be half full or half empty on its cheesy goodness?

Global stocks are feeling the pressure as investors fret over the stability of regional banks after some high-profile bankruptcies in the auto sector. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is taking legal action against proposed visa fees, arguing they could stifle small businesses. Meanwhile, international travel to the U.S. is declining, with a staggering $31 billion loss predicted this year. Travelers are seeking alternatives in Western Europe and the Middle East, raising questions about how the U.S. can win back visitors.

Mortgage rates have dropped to 6.27%, prompting homeowners to consider renovations rather than moving. Research indicates a rise in home improvement spending could emerge as homeowners look to personalize their spaces. Meanwhile, a segment features insights on regional bank troubles and loan fraud. Lastly, a unique exploration of alternative fats in baking reveals their climate impact, offering a tasty twist with taste tests of innovative croissants.

A pivotal agreement aimed at cutting carbon emissions from global shipping faces collapse due to U.S. intervention. Concerns over potential consumer price hikes take center stage as the discussion unfolds. Meanwhile, China's Singles' Day kicks off early this year in an attempt to revive sluggish consumer spending. The podcast also dives into the booming tattoo industry, projected to reach $6.5 billion by 2033, featuring insights from artists and trends shaping this vibrant market.